An Interview with Author L.E. Hutchinson

From Logan, Ohio, meet Author L.E. Hutchinson! L.E.’s first book Footprints in the Dust (Monday Creek Publishing) was launched earlier this year. Now, with her first book in the hands of readers, she is on a book tour throughout southeastern Ohio. Visit with L.E. at the historical Sherman House, Lancaster, Ohio, Sunday, August 6, from 2-4 p.m... 

Welcome L.E.!

GM: What is the premise for your new book Footprints in the Dust and who is your target audience?

LEH: The setting takes place in Putnam County, Ohio, during the Civil War era, 1860 - 1865. The main character is Sylvester Wilson Jeffrey, who is known as S.W. throughout the book. The basic concept is how one family struggled through hard times, love, and despair during the Civil War.

The Target Audience is for adults and young adults.

GM: How much of your own life is intertwined into your writing?

LEH: Based on the many stories that my Grandmother shared with me about her father (my great-grandfather), as well as stories about her own childhood, I wanted to write a book to widen and expand my love of family.

GM: Considering all of your characters, who is your favorite character?

LEH: All of the characters seemed real to me and were of great value in the story. I really enjoyed writing about Lily and the dangers she faced as she plotted and planned the escape of the two slave women and many of her other brazen acts.  S.W. had to be my favorite as he was the lone survivor of the war. 

GM: How do you maintain thoughts, ideas, and scenarios for future novels/books?

LEH: I have so many ideas floating around in my head right now. Some ideas stick in my head like glue while other ideas need to be jotted down. Lots of research and bouncing ideas around to get feedback from other people always helps and keeps me grounded.

GM: Who are your favorite writers/authors?

LEH: Dorothy Garlock, Beverly Lewis, Wanda E. Brunstetter, John Steinbeck, Carolyn Keene, (all the ghost writers for the Nancy Drew Series), but most of all Louisa May Alcott for writing Little Women.

GM: What are you currently writing?

LEH: The Little Red Airplane with Firecracker Andy and his awesome dog Airedale Archie.

GM: What are you currently reading?

LEH: Sting in The Tail by Chris Dyer

GM: Do you have advice for novice writers?

LEH: Don’t quit writing. Don’t quit dreaming. To young people, keep a journal, a diary, write letters, send letters or make your own cards to send to your friends and family. In spite of all the new technology most folks love getting personalized notes and cards. There’s power in the written word. 

GM: In a nutshell, and as a writer, what is your philosophy of life, living, and the pursuit of happiness?

LEH: Keep busy, keep moving, be constructive, think positive thoughts, be that person who inspires other people, show kindness and bring joy to those around you. Use your voice, your words, your smile, your human touch, (a pat on the back, a hug, a handshake, a kiss on the cheek). Your good deeds will always come back to you in unexpected ways.

Footprints in the Dust is available in eBook and Paperback…

https://www.amazon.com/

http://mondaycreekpublishing.com